XAREC® is the world's first syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS) resin. Idemitsu created this unique SPS product at our central research laboratories by combining a metallocene catalyst with a styrene monomer. The metallocene catalyst gives flexibility to the structure of the crystallized polystyrene SPS, allowing a variety of benzene ring arrangements. In addition, we have applied our advanced alloying and composite technology to greatly expand the commercial potential of XAREC® as an engineering plastic.
XAREC® is not only a superior engineering plastic, but is also environmentally friendly. This combination makes it the first choice for many of our customers.
| Resistance to hydrolysis | Compared to polyester- and polyamide-based resins, XAREC® offers a superior hydrolysis resistance, comparable to polyphenylene sulfide. |
|---|---|
| Chemical resistance | XAREC® is highly resistant to corrosion by various acids and alkalis, and can withstand automobile oils and antifreeze. |
| Low specific gravity | With one of the lowest specific gravities of all engineering plastics on the market, XAREC® reduces the weight and cost of parts. |
| Heat resistance | With a long-term heat resistance of 130°C, a heat distortion temperature of 250°C and a melting point of 270°C, XAREC® can be used for wave and reflow soldering. XAREC® is also moisture resistant, and useful for surface mount chip parts and connectors. |
| Electrical properties | XAREC®'s electrical properties, including its dissipation factor and dielectric constant, are similar to those of fluororesins. Because it is electrically stable over a wide range of frequencies and temperatures, XAREC® is suitable for high-frequency components. |
| Dimensional stability | Because the flow and transversal direction of the molten resin changes little during mold shrinkage, XAREC® offers good dimensional performance when compared to other glass-fiber-reinforced crystalline resins. |
| Processability | XAREC® can easily be molded on any standard specification injection molding machine. It possesses high flow properties, close to those of liquid crystal plastic, and degradation due to heating is minimal. It is also ground easily, making XAREC® easy to recycle. |



Specific gravity, thermal properties and flowability
XAREC® supports hybrid electric vehicles
Owing to its desirable heat resistance, electrical properties, chemical resistance and low specific gravity, XAREC® is well suited for the manufacture of electronic components for various hybrid electric vehicles. XAREC® is also a sound environmental choice, and is compatible with lead-free solder processes.


XAREC® in home appliances
Because XAREC® performs well even when subjected to temperature changes, or exposed to water chemicals and electrical contact, it has become an essential component of many everyday home appliances.
Resistance to chlorinated water


Hydrolysis and tracking resistance
XAREC®'s dielectric properties, including its low dissipation factor and dielectric constant, are close to those known for fluororesins, making XAREC® ideal for use in high-frequency components.


Related Documents
New Window OpenXAREC® Syndiotactic Polystyrene PG1/3 (PDF: 4,582KB)
New Window OpenXAREC® Syndiotactic Polystyrene PG2/3 (PDF: 2,741KB)
New Window OpenXAREC® Syndiotactic Polystyrene PG3/3 (PDF: 2,494KB)
